Is it a trap or am I over thinking it?

[Aaron White]

I have been looking at foreclosure homes on the MLS and am wondering if there is any easy way to estimate plumbing and electrical costs looking at a house that does not have water or electricity on? I am trying to avoid the surprise of missing pipes or major electrical jobs. Do you have any pointers on what to look for to at least avoid the big ticket losses?

Alternatively do some of you put in an offer assuming they are good but subject to inspection?  If so do you have an inspector look at this for you or do you get a plumber/ electrician to come out and look at these?